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The benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

10 February, 2018

 

ACV: the potent health tonic 

We are addicted to apple cider vinegar (aka ACV). It brings a ton of health hacks, because it's anti-inflammatory, boosts digestion and gut health, reduces blood sugar, aids weight loss and more.

But first, what is it? ACV is made by fermenting organic apple juice with yeast and beneficial bacteria, which turns it into acetic acid – the active ingredient in vinegar. This culture of good bacteria is known as 'the mother' (similar to the scoby culture in kombucha) which sounds bizarre, but it's full of proteins, enzymes and good bacteria, which gives the vinegar a cloudy appearance. Fun fact: when you see filtered ACV in shops (a clear liquid) it hasn't got the mother in, and don't carry the same benefits. Plus, ACV has chemicals known as polyphenols. These antioxidants can curb cell damage that can lead to other diseases. Big win. 

 We're huge fans (genuinely) of Willy's apple cider vinegar. The product is incredible, and the branding is on point. In fact, we decided to feature it in February's Fitty box.

 

 

Four big benefits of apple cider vinegar  

Blood sugar regulation 

The effect of ACV on blood sugar levels is said to be immense, and has led it to becoming a regular health hack in the ketogenic world, and with those managing type two diabetes, where sugar levels are incredibly important. ACV interferes with starch or carb digestion and slows down absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, therefore stabilising sugar levels. 

 
Heart health

AVC may also contain the antioxidant chlorogenic acid, which has been shown to protect cholesterol particles becoming oxidised (a crucial step in the heart disease process). When fatty plaque accumulates along arteries, this buildup can lead to a blockage of blood flow or a sudden rupture, causing a heart attack or stroke. Lowering of cholesterol is made possible by pectin, which is found in apples. LDL ( commonly known as the 'bad' cholesterol), binds itself to the pectin, and is then carried out of the body as waste. 


Gut health

Thanks to the mother, ACV has the right bacteria you need to support a healthy digestive system. It's been shown to have antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-yeast and anti-fungal benefits, all helping to support microbiome and overall immune balance. We recommend diluting it with warm water and honey first thing in the morning. It will stimulate your gastric juices so everything is firing on all cylinders as it's supposed to. This way you'll absorb more nutrients from your food, and have more energy.

Detoxification

Eastern medicine has taught us that ACV can stimulate circulation and aid detoxification in the liver. ACV is rich in natural minerals and vitamins and enzymes, and supplying these nutrients to the body is crucial in helping aid detoxification. Plus, the acid in ACV binds toxins and helps the body eliminate them more effectively. ACV also helps by breaking down mucus throughout the body and cleaning the lymph notes for better circulation. 

Three health hacks of apple cider vinegar  

#1: Dandruff

Put a few tablespoons of ACV into an empty shampoo bottle, fill with water, and pour over your hair in the shower. Then shampoo and condition as normal.

#2: Sore throats

As soon as you feel one coming on, mix ACV with honey and a little cayenne pepper. The ACV kills off bacteria and washes it away, and the honey soothes it, while cayenne's anti-inflammatory and pain relief benefits get to work.

#3: Shiny, spotty skin

ACV helps level off the PH of your skin. Dilute it with water, and wipe over your skin with a cotton pad to combat oil and shine.

 

 

 



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